Behringer XENYX 1204USB 12-Channel Mixer with USB

zZounds' Take on Behringer XENYX 1204USB

Sometimes, you don't need 32 channels of audio. Sometimes you just need a few channels that sound great, give you some usable sound shaping and routing, and aren't crowded out by a bunch of flashy add-ons and extras that you're not going to be using anyway. Sometimes, you just need a mixer a that does what you need a mixer to do with out you having to spend a fortune to get it done. Sometimes, the Behringer XENYX 1204USB 12-Channel Mixer with USB is exactly what you need.

Simple, Yet Versatile

With a compact footprint and a utilitarian design that includes a two-by-two USB audio interface, the Behringer XENYX 1204USB is just enough mixer for small acoustic performances, podcasting, video post-production, DJs, public presentations, and home-studio recording projects. Four mono channels provide XLR inputs for connecting a wide variety of microphones--if you're performing live that likely includes a dynamic vocal mic, and because the 1204USB can provide true 48-volt phantom power, you'll be able to used detailed condensers and other powered mics for controlled recording situations as well. The four mic channels also provide simple dynamics compression--a must have for both live and recording applications--tailored for vocals and easily dialed in via a single knob.

The next four channels (five and six, seven and eight) are coupled together as stereo line-level inputs, perfect for samplers, hardware sequencers, keyboards, CD players, or similar sources, though you can also use them as mono channels. A pair of Aux sends are available to all of these channels, letting you incorporate external effects units or monitor speakers into your rig. When used with effects processors, the Aux's boast stereo returns, giving ambient effects like reverb and echo, and modulation effects like chorus and flanger the dramatic spatiality they were intended to have. There's also a utility stereo RCA input for connecting MP3 players or other audio sources, paired with a stereo RCA output for recording to external devices like digital recorders or CD burners. The main mix is served up via two balanced XLR outputs for a reliable connection to your amplifier or house PA system, and it's accompanied by another pair of Aux outputs plus a control room output for monitoring either in the studio or out on the road. Of course, there's also a 1/4-inch headphone jack when you need to get up close and personal with your sound.

The No-Compromise Sound

Just because the Behringer XENYX 1204USB is impressively affordable doesn't mean they skimp on audio quality. Just take a listen to those four XENYX preamps for proof. Designed by Behringer, the XENYX mic preamps are perfect for a wide variety of applications. They're transparent, boast 130db of dynamic range, and match beautifully with just about any live or studio microphone. Inputs one through eight all feature Behringer's much-lauded "British EQ", an equalization circuit with a pleasingly musical character that makes massaging a signal into usability nearly fool-proof. The 1204USB is quiet, rugged, and employs reliable jacks, knobs, and sliders for years of trustworthy, hi-fidelity operation.

What Can USB Do For U?

The simple addition of a stereo in, stereo out USB interface opens up a world of new possibilities. Because you can send the main mix to your computer, you can now start recording digital multitrack projects at home, easily produce a professional-sounding podcast, or record a live performance to your computer's hard drive, all without the need for any additional equipment. The 1204USB can also send audio information from your computer back into the mixer, providing a high-fidelity playback option for music, slideshow presentations, theatrical applications. . . the possibilities are endless.

A Surplus Of Software

Helping you make the most of the 1204USB's integrated computer interface, Behringer packs the box with a wealth of computer recording software, including the perennially popular Audacity editing program. Also included are applications for producing pro-sound podcasts, including Podifier, Juice, Podnova and Golden Ear. For more advanced multi-track recording, the XENYX 1204USB ships with a special Behringer-centric edition of energyXT2.5, one of the most powerful DAWs you've never heard of. This well-kept secret has been the weapon of choice for pioneering experimental music-makers and DIY rebels alike, and now you can tap into the exciting production potential that energyXT offers. To sweeten the deal even further, your new XENYX mixer includes 150 virtual instruments and effects plug-ins; you'll get an entire computer-based production studio along with one of the most popular compact mixers available today.

What's not to love about the Behringer XENYX 1204USB 12-Channel Mixer with USB? It sounds great, isn't overly complicated, and introduces a vast world of computer recording potential thanks to its built-in USB interface. Plus, it's available from zZounds at an unbeatable low price.

Manufacturer's Description for Behringer XENYX 1204USB 12-Channel Mixer with USB

Perfect for a small live-performance mixer, as well as home-based recording setup, the XENYX 1204USB provides four mono channels with premium XENYX mic preamps, neo-classic 3-band British-style EQ and two stereo input channels. Far from being a "bare-bones" mixer, all mono channels feature our "one knob" studio-grade compressor and two Aux Sends (one each pre- and post-fader). Two stereo Aux Returns are included for use with external FX modules. The built-in USB audio interface provides bi-directional transfer of signals between the mixer and computer.

XENYX USB Series mixers are designed to handle your live gigs, and they provide the state-of-the-art tools you need to make stunning, professional-quality recordings. Along with their built-in USB/audio interfaces, XENYX USB mixers come with all the recording and editing software you'll need to turn your computer system into a complete, high-performance home recording studio.

Features

- Premium ultra-low noise, high headroom analog mixer
- 4 state-of-the-art XENYX, phantom-powered Mic Preamps comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
- 4 studio-grade compressors with super-easy "one-knob" functionality and control LED for professional vocal and instrumental sound
- Neo-classic "British" 3-band EQs for warm and musical sound
- Built-in stereo USB/Audio Interface to connect directly to your computer. Free audio recording, editing and podcasting software plus 150 instrument/effect plug-ins and ultra-low latency driver included
- Revolutionary energyXT2.5 Compact BEHRINGER Edition music production software included with feature-rich audio/MIDI sequencer that loads almost instantaneously on all computer platforms
- 2 aux sends per channel: 1 pre fader for monitoring applications, 1 post fader for external FX devices
- Clip LEDs and mute/alt 3-4 function on all channels
- 2 subgroups with separate outputs for added routing flexibility
- 2 multi-functional stereo aux returns with flexible routing
- Balanced main mix outputs with gold-plated XLR connectors plus separate control room, headphones and stereo tape outputs
- Control room/phones outputs with multi-input source matrix
- Long-wearing 60-mm logarithmic-taper faders and sealed rotary controls
- "Planet Earth" switching power supply for maximum flexibility (100 - 240 V~), noise-free audio, superior transient response plus low power consumption for energy saving
- Rack mount brackets included for ultimate flexibility
- High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
- Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany

Sonically Superior Mic Preamps

All XENYX mixers have one thing in common--great-sounding, high headroom XENYX mic preamps. These state-of-the-art mic pres represent a major step in the evolution of audio technology--and they can easily hold their own, even when compared to the most expensive stand-alone mic preamps. XENYX preamps offer a staggering 130 dB of dynamic range, with a bandwidth that extends from below 10 Hz to well above 200 kHz. Armed with these outstanding mic preamps, XENYX mixers provide such transparent, crystal-clear performance you just might think someone upgraded your mics while you weren't looking.

Sublimely Musical British EQ

The British consoles of the 1960s and '70s changed the sound of rock and roll--without them the British Invasion might not have happened. Those legendary mixing desks soon became the envy of engineers and producers all over the world. The channel EQ on our XENYX mixers is based on that very same circuitry, allowing you to imbue signals with incredible warmth and detailed musical character. Even when applied generously, these equalizers exhibit sweet forgiveness and superb audio quality.

One-Knob Compression

Ask professional sound engineers what their favorite piece of external processing gear is and the majority response will be virtually unanimous--dynamic compression. What is compression? We're glad you asked. Compression essentially limits the dynamic range of a signal, lowering the level of loud sounds and turning up softer sounds, to achieve sonic balance. But applying compression is a delicate art that many novice, and even intermediate, sound techs have great difficulty mastering. Our "one-knob" compression is available on all mono channels and is easy to operate, even for entry-level users. With this one knob, you can easily dial in the perfect amount of compression for instruments and vocals, creating powerful mixes with punch and clarity. This is indeed a rare feature for products in this class--but standard on all XENYX USB mixers.

Recording Bliss

There was a time when the recording process called for lots and lots of expensive gear, which meant the average musician had to buy time at a recording studio--and that time was pricey indeed. But modern technology has put personal recording well within the reach of virtually anyone with access to a computer. How do you get all that music flying around your brain into your computer? That's where XENYX USB mixers come in. Thanks to the built-in, bi-directional stereo USB audio interface, you can connect any of these mixers directly to your PC or Mac computer via a single USB cable. Now any signal source you connect to the mixer can be recorded directly to your hard drive. Which brings us to software...

Free Would Be Nice!

Because you'll want to take full advantage of the XENYX USB Series mixers' recording and podcasting potential, we've thrown in a massive software package that includes Audacity (the most popular open source audio editor), Podifier, Juice, Podnova and Golden Ear (a great selection of podcasting software). You're ready to go live on your PC or Mac computer right out of the box! You also get more than 100 virtual instruments and 50 FX plug-ins, turning your computer into a complete home-based or mobile recording studio from input to output.

energyXT2.5 Compact BEHRINGER Edition Included

When you're ready to take your recording projects to the next level, XT Software's energyXT is just the trick. This amazing DAW (digital audio workstation) makes it easy to manipulate your audio and MIDI files, turning song ideas into stunning CD or Web-ready recordings. energyXT includes its own multi-FX processor, plus a built-in synthesizer/sampler and a drum machine, both of which can be accessed directly via an external controller (such as our UMA25S) or programmed in step-write mode. To learn more about energyXT2.5 Compact Edition or to download the demo version, go to http://www.behringer.com/EN/Support/energyXT2.5-Compact-BEHRINGER-Edition.aspx .

Value

No matter what your audio mixing needs are, BEHRINGER USB Series mixers provide the performance and features that can take your talent to the next level, at a price that is sure to amaze you. Try one on today--we have one available in your size! zZounds is an authorized dealer of Behringer products.

Dimensions and Weight in Packaging

Shipping Weight: 11 lbs

Shipping Dimensions: 16 x 6 x 15 in